On Saturday, June 20, a nearly stationary line of thunderstorms dumped significant amounts of rain over the western part of the Island of Montreal in just a few hours. Several areas received rainfall totals of around 150 mm over a 24-hour period.

This rainfall, combined with precipitation that had already fallen earlier in the day, fell on saturated ground, leading to flash flooding. It is estimated that between 300 and 350 homes in Pierrefonds-Roxboro were affected by flooding or significant water accumulation. Some thunderstorms were accompanied by hail and caused power outages in the hardest-hit areas.

A coordinated response

As soon as the first reports came in, teams from Public Works, the SPVM, and the SIM were mobilized to ensure the safety of residents and assist those affected by the flooding. All our teams are still currently deployed to continue clearing sewers, cleaning the streets with street sweepers, and picking up fallen branches, prioritizing the most urgent situations and securing the affected areas.

To date, the SPVM’s 911 line has received approximately 750 calls related to flooding (flooded homes and residents trapped in their cars), but no injuries have been reported. The 311 citizen line also received a high volume of 300 calls in just a few hours, resulting in response times that were exceptionally longer than usual.

The City has also been working closely with Hydro-Québec to support efforts to restore power as quickly as possible. 

Guidelines for residents

In the event of a natural disaster such as torrential rain, the City does not assume the role of your private insurer with regard to cleaning your home or the removal and transport of contaminated materials.

• Take photos of all damage before beginning any cleanup work;
• Contact your insurer as soon as possible to open a claim;
• Ask your insurer to provide containers and to arrange for the collection and transport of debris;
• Remove damaged furniture, materials, and items promptly to reduce the risk of mold; these will be collected by your insurer.
• Keep receipts for emergency expenses and work performed.

Closed buildings

• Versailles Pool (closed for several days)
• Roxboro Chalet
• Marcel-Morin Community Center
• Cultural Center (basement only)
• Rive-Boisée Chalet
• Public Works Citizen Service Counter 

All activities scheduled at these locations are also canceled.

A Resilient and Supportive Community

At times like these, community solidarity is essential. We encourage residents who are able to do so to check in on their neighbours, especially seniors, people with limited mobility, and those living alone.

We understand the difficulties many residents are currently facing. Rest assured that the City remains fully committed to supporting those affected and restoring services as quickly as possible.